Five Girls Five Cities: this is it (ROME 15)

Today is the day! I am going back to the United States because it is May 16th, 2012. (I just had to state the date to remind myself that it is actually happening.)

As I just come back from having dinner in my favorite neighborhood, having drinks with friends, and walking around in the nice weather down the cobble stone streets, I have to look back on my previous semester. Clearly, there is no better way to do this, then to reflect on this blog!

beautiful tiber river, at night

When I first got here, I expected to transition quickly, but as many of my friends and family know, it didn't happen with ease. Eventually though, just like everyone had comforted me, things did fall into place.

Between all my typical study abroad moves, traveling the world, going to major festivals, and seeking out all possible rated restaurants in every city, this experience was much more to me then just those things.

From barely surviving first semester freshman year, to living away for four months in Italy, is something I would have never deemed possible. Although, it just shows, with a little faith in yourself, a lot is possible!

Before I get too emotional, I know that this experience has brought me to become more independent then ever before. After looking back at my first post, I remember my goals, and this was certainly one of them. From being in a Rome hospital, to hiding out under cover on a train, and taking planes (a common fear of mine) almost every week, I can manage anything that is about to come my way.

I met great people, was put in situations that have taught me life lessons, and now have a want to travel to so many different and new places!

Now as I go to the airport, to board a flight back to AMERICA (?) I know a lot of exciting things are ahead of me. A majority of my friends from studying abroad, PLUS all my best friends from school and home will all be working in New York City this summer. I recently got an internship at Nickelodeon Integrated Marketing, and could not be more excited about that opportunity.

As sad as I am to leave, I just have to remember that I will be back! I already have discussions with my parents to come some time soon after graduation, because I can't be away from my new favorite city for too long. It is amazing how much there is to do, see, (EAT!), and be apart of here.

I would not trade this experience for anything, and I know that I will have the memories and experiences of this semester for a lifetime.